Kobe Bryant‘s daughter, Gianna Bryant, passed away in a horrific helicopter crash in 2020. It might be comforting for fans to know that she was right by her dad’s side when the brutal incident took place. Multiple sources claim that the helicopter that Kobe often used, flew too high and couldn’t keep up with the weather conditions.
It has been three years since the accident happened but the details of it continue to haunt fans. Kobe Bryant’s autopsy report mentions that the NBA legend experienced gruesome last few seconds. With that said, the world continues to mourn the loss of nine lives lost that day.
How old was Gianna Bryant when she died?
Gianna Bryant was a talented basketball player who displayed the same level of work ethic as her father. It almost seems like the basketball world was robbed of a sensational player, who showcased her talent at such a young age. Speaking of her age, Gigi was just 13 years old when she passed away. It would be safe to claim that she had her entire career and life ahead.
On her birthday, May 1, the basketball world gathered to pay tribute to Gigi. This included Giannis Antetokounmpo, Pau Gasol, WNBA star Sabrina Ionescu. The Milwaukee Bucks superstar said, “Playing the Gigi way is always the willingness to improve, playing not selfish, playing with joy, and always try to be the best version of yourself.”
Gianna “Gigi” Bryant reminds us to be our best, on and off the court. Tune into what @sabrina_i20, @Giannis_An34, @PauGasol, and others had to say about what it means to PLAY GIGI’S WAY.
Tell us how you PLAY GIGI’S WAY in the comments.👇 pic.twitter.com/z2lhhBDhbS
— Nike Basketball (@nikebasketball) May 1, 2023
The video was released by Nike, in light of the recent campaign for Gigi’s shoes. The Kobe IV Protro “Mambacita” was released on Gigi’s birthday to pay homage to how big of a prodigy she was. Moreover, just like Kobe always intended to, Nike and its athletes have used this opportunity to motivate other young and upcoming players as well.
The Kobe IV Protro “Mambacita” celebrates Gianna “Gigi” Bryant’s 17th birthday. We dare you to #PlayGigisWay, to be competitive, joyful, and curious and never take any opportunity for granted, just like Gigi.
Available starting 5.1 on SNKRS in select regions. pic.twitter.com/j4MH8j5gP2
— Nike Basketball (@nikebasketball) April 28, 2023
Pau Gasol, or ‘Uncle Pau,’ has chosen to have a say on ‘Gigi’s Way‘ as well. The former Los Angeles Lakers star mentioned, “Working your craft, putting in the work, so you can continue to grow as a player. Be determined, just having fun.” Gigi’s former basketball coach also pointed out that she was an example to other young athletes, even at a young age.
Gigi’s memory will continue to live on, thanks to efforts like these. She will be remembered, which isn’t all that surprising considering the impact she left on the people around her.
